Welcome to an electrifying interview with the incredibly talented electronic music producer, Spencer Newell! In this engaging conversation, we’ll dive deep into Spencer’s creative world, exploring his proudest career accomplishments, the driving motivations behind his journey into DJing and music production, and the influential producers and tracks that have shaped his unique sound.
We'll also uncover the story and inspiration behind his latest release "I Didn't Run" featuring Adara, delve into his production process, and discuss the technical challenges he’s faced along the way. Expect candid insights into his thoughts on the evolving electronic music industry, his dream collaborations, and even a sneak peek into the fresh tracks he’s currently cooking up in the studio.
Whether you're a die-hard trance fan or simply curious about the mind behind the music, this interview promises to be an inspiring and revealing exploration of passion, perseverance, and the power of sound. Get ready to be captivated!
Dimitris: Hi there! Could you share with us your top three accomplishments or objectives that you are most proud of achieving in your career as an electronic music producer?
Spencer Newell: Being signed to Future Sounds of Egypt, Having a top 5 record on beatport (Trance - Main Floor), being managed by Luminary Artists
Dimitris: Could you share the motivations that led you to pursue a career in DJing or producing electronic dance music?
Spencer Newell: I fell in love with EDM in 1998 when I first heard Underworlds Born Slippy. The sounds and textures of the track were incredibly fascinating. Having a musical background I began to imagine the idea of being a producer. It wasn't until 2020 when I made the plunge into pursuing a lifelong dream of being a DJ/Producer.
Dimitris: Who are the three most influential producers that inspired you to pursue a career in the electronic dance music industry?
Spencer Newell: Underworld, Ayla, Prodigy.
Dimitris: Could you share with me the top three tracks from your past that have really shaped your musical style? I’d love to know what makes these songs so influential for you!
Spencer Newell: Absolutely, Dimitris! Here are the top three tracks that have profoundly shaped my musical style. Born Slippy - Underworld, Akesson - Flavour Park, Jorn Van Deynhoven remix of RAMsterdam.
Dimitris: Could you tell me about your latest release I Did't Run with Adara on vocal duties released on Future Sound of Egypt? I'm curious about what inspired you during its creation and would love to hear more about the thought process behind this awesome vocal trance track.
Spencer Newell: I Didn't Run - The instrumental was written in 2023 during a dark time of my life. What you hear in the mix is raw emotion. Combined with Adara's powerful and emotional songwriting, we put together a feeling-based anthem that I hope shakes the dance floor for years to come.
Dimitris: Could you give me an idea of how long it usually takes to produce a track? Also, I’d love to hear a simplified overview of your production process.
Spencer Newell: It can take anywhere from fifteen hours to one year, depending on the creative process. Typically I'll start constructing lead synth midi to start the production process and build from there starting with the kick.
Dimitris: Could you share more about any specific technical challenges or obstacles you faced while producing that track? I'm really curious to hear about your experiences and how you overcame them!
Spencer Newell: The biggest technical challenge I consistently have is navigating Ableton and getting the most out of the software.
Dimitris: If you could choose any artist to create a remix for this track, who would it be and why do you think they'd do an amazing job?
Spencer Newell: The track as it is is how I imagined it to sound so I wouldn't change anything. Even though he's also an uplifting producer I would love to hear what Craig Connelly could do with the track.
Dimitris: I've noticed a trend where more people are producing music with analogue equipment and minimizing digital software use. What do you think about this shift?
Spencer Newell: The shift to analog equipment is great! A piano and a computer with Ableton is all I need. All of Fab Filters plugin's are my go-to for processing tools.
Dimitris: Let us know your musical preference – do you lean more towards vocal tracks or instrumental ones? If we're chatting about a track with vocals, I'd love to hear more about the singer you work with!
Spencer Newell: Vocals - Adara is a one of a kind songwriter who wears emotion on her sleeve.
Dimitris: Are there any electronic dance music vocalists or singers you dream of collaborating with?
Spencer Newell: Clara Yates, Christina Novelli, Aruna.
Dimitris: Pick your favorite dance track lyrics that have deeply touched you. Share how these words resonate emotionally with you and why they hold a special place in your heart.
Spencer Newell: My single with Lokka Vox, Bleeding. Her lyrics described exactly how I was feeling at the time of composition. Plus, I have a personal friendship with her because of the collaboration.
Dimitris: Do you think the artwork for your latest track is eye-catching and likely to grab the attention of listeners or record buyers? If yes, could you share an example of what you consider to be the most impressive artwork ever designed for a track?
Spencer Newell: Yes! Anything with FSOE logos on it :)
Dimitris: Could you share your top three favorite record labels in your preferred music genre? It would be great if you could also explain why these labels hold a special place in your heart and how they impact the electronic music industry. Thanks!
Spencer Newell: FSOE - It was the dream label.
Find Your Harmony - Andrew Rayel gave me my first shot at a big trance label.
AVA Recordings - they have been my biggest supporters so far in my career.
Dimitris: We'd love to hear about the future tracks you are currently cooking in your studio and the vibe you're going for in them?
Spencer Newell: In may of 2025 my single "Focus One" is being released on Sean Tyas's Degenerate label. I'm excited because it's my first release within the tech-trance world.
Dimitris: What's your all-time favorite album or compilation, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?
Spencer Newell: Born Slippy - Underworld: It was the first time I heard EDM...the track remains as my favorite of all time
Dimitris: How much time do you spend promoting yourself on social media? Do you find it an essential tool for both getting your name out there and managing bookings? Also, which platform do you think works best for your business?
Spencer Newell: It is certainly an essential tool for getting your name out and I spend up to five hours a week working on my social connections. Instagram works best for me.
Dimitris: Do you share any videos on TikTok and if yes, which one is your favorite? Also, how do you feel TikTok has impacted the promotion of music releases? Have any fans made TikTok videos with your music that you'd like to highlight?
Spencer Newell: I am new to the TikTok world so I don't know if I'm the best person to ask
Dimitris: Are you planning to focus more on DJing alongside your trance music production, or will it remain a secondary pursuit?
Spencer Newell: Nothing booked yet...but I'm waiting for the call to come!
Dimitris: Are you happy with the quality of tracks being released in your favorite music genres? I'd love to hear why or why not!
Spencer Newell: Yes! the talent and production level is getting better and better as time goes on.
Dimitris: Could you share your current and latest top three tracks with us, and maybe add a short commentary on each? Thanks a bunch! 🎧🎶
Spencer Newell: Absolutely, Dimitris! Here are my current top three tracks:
Sean Tyas - For The Low - it's just raw
Somna & Sabai - I Miss You - it's just very very good
Tensteps - Acid Imminent - Love the energy!
Dimitris: Are you happy with how royalties are currently handled for your music, especially when it comes to streaming income? Do you think you’re getting a fair deal from streaming platforms, DJs playing your tracks at events, radio broadcasts, and retailers selling your music in physical and digital formats?
Spencer Newell: Honestly, I have never really worried too much about how royalties are handled. I just enjoy making good music and having people enjoy it on the dance floor. I never expected to make money in music when I started this!
Dimitris: Could you share with us any technical tips or personal advice from your DJing and music production journey that have been crucial to your success and might inspire or help new talents?
Spencer Newell: Find a good mentor to help you get started and don't be afraid to ask questions along the process. No question is a dumb question
Dimitris: Many producers and DJs offer online masterclasses or courses on music production and DJing. Do you think participating in these is crucial for improving your skills?
Spencer Newell: Most definitely I think masterclasses are helpful. In fact, that's how I got started after I saw Armin's Dance Production Masterclass.
Dimitris: Are there any club classics you’re excited to remix or rework this year? Also, do you often create your own unique versions of those timeless tracks?
Spencer Newell: I haven't gone too much into the realm of reworks yet or my own versions of timeless tracks. Coming soon!
Dimitris: As an electronic music producer/DJ, could you share which remix of this club classic you think is the most effective and which one is the least? I'd love to hear your detailed thoughts on why you feel that way!
Spencer Newell: Jorn Van Deynhoeven - His remix of RAM's RAMsterdam. It's just so good! It hits all of the cylinders of the trance production process for me
Dimitris: How important is fan approval to you when creating your music, and do you find it challenging to understand how your tracks are received? Does this impact your stress levels or motivation?
Spencer Newell: Approval is not important to me as a producer. I just love to make music that hits me in the ways. However it is received is out of my control.
Dimitris: Can you tell us if your music fits into a specific genre like trance, house, or techno, or do you prefer to break the mold? Also, what do you think about artists mixing different styles to create something new and unique?
Spencer Newell: I'm a trance artist. I'm all for artists trying new styles. I hope that trend continues!
Dimitris: Is making music your main job, and do you have the freedom to step away from it when needed? If not, what other work do you do to help support yourself?
Spencer Newell: As I pursue a full-time career in music I am a personal trainer/coach as well as a writer for the Oregon State Beavers / Beaverblitz.
Dimitris: Do you think it's a good idea to limit constant photo or video-taking during DJ sets from fans, or are you okay with it?
Spencer Newell: I'm okay with it!
Dimitris: Are there any particular festivals or clubs where you dream of playing one day?
Spencer Newell: My ultimate goal in music is to play at Dreamstate USA. After that my goal would be to get to Luminosity. When I start playing live I believe I'd prefer playing in intimate clubs
Dimitris: Can you share your favorite hobby, pet, or movie/TV series?
Spencer Newell: Pet - Moo my cat. Movie - Top Gun. Hobby - Endurance sports. TV Series - Law and Order SVU.
Dimitris: Imagine you’re a club event organizer. Can you help us out by suggesting your top 5 DJs for our upcoming event?
Spencer Newell: Absolutely, Dimitris! Here are my top 5 DJ suggestions for your upcoming event: Tensteps, Somna, Andrew Rayel, Metta & Glyde, Sean Tyas
Dimitris: Could you share a message and your best wishes for the readers of Flux BPM Online?
Spencer Newell: Thank you so much for all of your support!! It means the world to me
Download/Stream: https://fsoe.lnk.to/ididntrun
